pasta with cream cheese recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
pasta with cream cheese recipe
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The Best pasta with cream cheese recipe

I love this pasta with cream cheese recipe because it is so simple and satisfying. My kids always ask for it after a long day at school, and it comes together in under 30 minutes. The cream cheese makes the sauce rich and creamy without needing heavy cream, so it feels indulgent but is actually lighter. It is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something comforting but do not have a lot of time. I also like that it uses ingredients I usually have on hand, like pasta and a block of cream cheese. My family loves how smooth and cheesy it tastes, and I love that it is a balanced meal we can enjoy together.

Creamy Pasta with Cream Cheese

Creamy Pasta with Cream Cheese

4.5 from 1529 votes

This creamy pasta dish uses cream cheese to create a luscious, velvety sauce with minimal effort. It is a quick weeknight dinner that feels special but comes together in under 30 minutes.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time15 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time25 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pasta

12 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine)
1 tbsp salt for pasta water

For the Cream Cheese Sauce

4 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup reserved pasta water
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

👨‍🍳Directions

1Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, stirring constantly.
3Reduce heat to low and add the softened cream cheese to the skillet. Stir continuously until the cream cheese melts and becomes smooth, about 2 to 3 minutes.
4Gradually add 1/2 cup of the reserved pasta water to the cream cheese mixture, stirring until a creamy sauce forms. Add the Parmesan cheese, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir until combined.
5Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add more pasta water a tablespoon at a time until you reach the desired consistency.
6Remove from heat and stir in the fresh parsley. Serve immediately.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Colander
Skillet or saute pan
Wooden spoon or spatula
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 14g💛Saturated Fat: 8g❤️Cholesterol: 40mg🧂Sodium: 520mg🌾Total Carbs: 52g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 3g🥩Protein: 13g

📝Notes

Tips: For a richer sauce, use full fat cream cheese. You can add cooked chicken or vegetables like spinach or peas for extra nutrition. The sauce thickens as it cools, so serve right away.

Watch Video Of How Creamy Pasta with Cream Cheese Works

This pasta with cream cheese recipe is always a great choice for any occasion because it is quick, creamy, and loved by everyone. It works perfectly for family dinners or casual get togethers, and I know it will become a favorite in your home too.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Pasta with Cream Cheese

1. Can I use low fat cream cheese?

Yes, you can use low fat cream cheese, but the sauce may be less creamy and slightly thinner. For best results, use full fat cream cheese to get that rich, velvety texture.

2. What kind of pasta works best?

Short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or farfalle work well because they hold the sauce nicely. Long pasta like fettuccine or spaghetti also works, just toss thoroughly to coat.

3. Can I add protein to this dish?

Absolutely. Cooked chicken, shrimp, or crumbled bacon are great additions. Add them after the sauce is ready and before tossing with the pasta.

4. How do I prevent the cream cheese from clumping?

Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature before adding it to the pan. Also, add the pasta water gradually and stir constantly to create a smooth sauce.

5. Can I make this ahead of time?

This dish is best served fresh because the sauce thickens as it cools. If you need to make it ahead, reheat gently with a splash of milk or pasta water to restore the creamy consistency.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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